Tiger Woods could be nearing deal with Nike rival just hours after split
Tiger Woods could be closer to signing a deal with rival Nike, hours after parting ways
Tiger Woods ended his 27-year relationship with Nike on Monday. The 15-time major champion looks to wrap up his next venture before the 2024 season.
Golfer Tiger Woods has signed a new apparel deal with TaylorMade, a day after ending his iconic partnership with Nike.
Woods, who has won 15 major championships and 82 PGA Tour titles, defined an era by appearing in a red Nike logo Sunday shirt. She is the longtime face of the brand and has appeared in numerous ads during their fruitful relationship, which ended on Monday.
Woods is scheduled to appear on Wednesday’s episode of the Fore Play podcast. The series posted a teaser on social media, and TaylorMade added an interesting twist ahead of the premiere, repeating the clip with a wide-eyed emoji and the caption “Stand Apart.”
According to a report from TaylorMade, Woods could be a great addition to the family. The 15-time champion uses TaylorMade clubs during competitions, so it makes sense to explore and develop a relationship. However, TaylorMade’s range of apparel is very limited, with around 33 items currently listed on its website, most of which are casual sportswear. Either way, what’s next for Woods after 27 years at Nike is very exciting. Especially since more Americans hope to play golf in 2024. Currently, TaylorMade’s product line is not broad enough to accommodate PGA Tour players. TaylorMade gear signees wore Nike or Adidas gear to compensate, but the company is preparing to expand its apparel lineup. Last month, TaylorMade began advertising jobs for its “new apparel department.” TaylorMade can bolster its apparel line and lure players, including Woods, to major contracts. During his time at Nike, Woods earned approximately $500 million from these deals. He turned professional in 1996 at the age of 20 and has since become the face of the brand. His first contract, a five-year deal worth $40 million, became one of the most successful trades in sports history. Tiger Woods remains one of the hottest players and biggest names in golf, and his next clothing venture is sure to be a hit.
There was no suggestion the split was acrimonious and both sides announced the news in polite statements. Woods wrote on social media: “27 years ago I was lucky enough to work with one of the most iconic brands in the world.
“The next few days will be filled with so many amazing moments and memories that if I could name them, they could go on forever. Phil Knight’s passion and vision brought the Nike and Nike Golf partnership together. I would like to personally thank him, the Nike staff and the amazing athletes I have had the pleasure of working with.
“People are asking if there is another chapter. Yes, there will definitely be another chapter.”
“Tiger, you challenged the competition, stereotypes, conventions and old ways of thinking,” Nike wrote on Instagram. You challenged the entire golf world. You tested us. Especially you. And we appreciate this challenge.”
Woods is scheduled to compete in the Genesis Invitational held at Riviera CC in February.
